Appointed Acting Sub-Regional Coordinator of FAO for West Africa in March 2025, Bintia Stephen-Tchicaya leads efforts to establish resilient and inclusive food systems across 15 countries. Drawing on decades of experience within the United Nations and FAO, she focuses on turning agricultural potential into tangible impact amid rising food insecurity and climate pressures.
Bintia Stephen-Tchicaya is the Acting Sub-Regional Coordinator for FAO in West Africa. She has several decades of expertise in agricultural policy, socio-economic development, and regional coordination. Previously, she served as the FAO’s Acting Representative in Liberia. She holds a master’s degree in human development, food security, and sustainability from Roma Tre University, and a master’s in economics and international finance from the American University of Paris. She leads FAO’s “Four Betters” program, which aims to improve production, nutrition, the environment, and livelihoods by addressing immediate food security needs and long-term resilience. Her vision emphasizes inclusive policies that integrate nutrition, climate adaptation, and community engagement for the benefit of the most vulnerable populations.
“First, I am an economist by training, and my journey is truly a story of commitment. I have dedicated over 35 years to development, including 28 years at FAO. I have worked in several African countries and at FAO headquarters in Rome. Today, I am here in Senegal. I can say that every step has really prepared me for this role — transforming agri-food systems and improving lives.”
Bintia Stephen-Tchicaya, Acting FAO Coordinator for West Africa – Senegal
Her approach blends policy reform, digital innovation, and community-based models such as Farmer Field Schools and Dimitra clubs. In Senegal, she supported the integration of climate and food systems into national legislation. She also promotes digital tools for livestock traceability and early warning systems to enhance resilience in pastoral areas.
“I particularly think of Senegal, for example, the women of Barkéji who built a daycare center and also took charge of their village’s school canteen. These young women have now become entrepreneurs. They are no longer just producers, and the fact that we supported them in transforming agriculture into a source of employment and dignity — these are the stories that motivate me every day.”
Bintia Stephen-Tchicaya, Acting FAO Coordinator for West Africa – Senegal
She also calls on the international community to support the development of sustainable agriculture and food systems, especially in developing countries. Through FAO’s Hand-in-Hand forum, she encourages large-scale, climate-resilient investments in irrigation, infrastructure, and early warning systems. She warns that conflicts, climate shocks, and funding shortages remain major challenges.
West Africa is a key region in Africa — full of challenges but also opportunities. For me, my role is really to connect countries, try to share best practices, and we have many to demonstrate in this sub-region.
Bintia Stephen-Tchicaya, Acting FAO Coordinator for West Africa – Senegal
Under her leadership, FAO’s work in West Africa aims not only to respond to food crises but also to strengthen long-term resilience. By combining innovation, legal reform, digital tools, and community engagement, she promotes inclusive, climate-resilient, and sustainable food systems. Analysts highlight that her approach shows transformation is possible when governments, partners, and communities collaborate — aligning investments, governance, and technology with regional food security and self-sufficiency.
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